338 LM Question on Barrel Length and Powders

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Moosemix

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I've ordered a new rifle in .338 LM and I've been researching possible loads for it before it gets here.

It has a 24 inch barrel, and I've noticed a lot of load data references the use of a 26 inch barrel. I know this isn't a huge difference, but is it likely that certain powders (because of burn rate, etc.) that will work better with the 24 inch barrel?
 
Not really. Burn rate only affects the bullet weight you should be using. The only difference with the short barrel is it may make it harder to get the heavier bullets to sufficient velocity to make them worthwhile.
If you look at your manual, you will see different powders listed for 200gr versus 300gr bullets. For example, vhitavouri 560 is better for lighter and 570 is better for heavier bullets, regardless of barrel length.
 
I'm somewhat in the same boat. I have an MRAD with a 24" barrel. Why? Because.

My research tells me to start with Retumbo powder. Google MRAD 338LM loads. Lots of info is out there for 24" barrels.
 
My guess is that at the extreme ranges where a bit more velocity makes the difference most police ROEs are severely restricted. A rifle that is 6" shorter makes a huge difference for portability, especially when noise is dealt with by suppression. I don't have a use for a hunting rifle past 1km either. Only reason long range hunters use boomers is for knock down power at long range. Competitive paper punchers generally prefer lower recoil rifles up to 1km. If or when I can afford a "precision" rifle, I expect it will be a 20" 338LM.
 
With my 24" MRAD, I should be supersonic out to 1800 yards and have 20mil of drop. That's acceptable to me. Heck, I can't even find 1800 yards, so I don't feel too handicapped by a 24" barrel
 
The main reason I went with this rifle was price. The rifle was cheaper than most and had great reviews. I did hesitate a bit when I saw the 24" barrel, but in the end I figured my range will be limited by finding a place to shoot it, not by the rifle so I wasn't too concerned.

I'll definitely give my reloading manuals another read and give Retumbo a try.

So probably stick more to the 225-250gr bullets and avoid the 300gr?
 
Don't write off 300g bullets. People are having success with 300g Scenars with the 24" barrel. The 285g Hornady ELD match (if you can find them), are probably one of the most universally successful bullets with the 24". With monolithic bullets becoming more common, these will be the best for target shooting. With muzzle velocities of 250g monolithic being quick high, and BC rivalling 300g bullets, what's not to like?
 
Awesome. It seems barrel length won't limit my loads. I looked into those 285g ELDs and others seem to like them. I'll see if I can get my hands on them.
 
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